Boudh: In a daring night operation, the ODRAF rescue team saved the life of a patient trapped in floodwaters in Harabhanga block of Boudh district and shifted him to hospital across the swollen Mahanadi river.
Due to heavy rains and flooding in the Mahanadi, more than 10 villages in Harabhanga block are currently waterlogged. Roads have been submerged at multiple places, severely affecting normal life.Last night, Nabati Behera of Panighara village fell seriously ill.
With transportation cut off due to the floods, the family was unable to take him to hospital. Villagers then informed the ODRAF team. Responding immediately, the Boudh ODRAF team waded through about 2 kilometers of flood water in the Mahanadi at night to reach Panighara.
The team rescued Behera from his home and ferried him across the flooded river to Athamallik Sub-Divisional Hospital for treatment. Officials said the timely intervention prevented any escalation in the patient’s condition.
The team’s bravery in carrying out a rescue in dangerous flood conditions in the middle of the night has drawn widespread appreciation across the region. Villagers and local residents have thanked the ODRAF personnel for their prompt and courageous action.
With several low-lying areas still inundated, district authorities said ODRAF and Fire Services teams remain on alert in Boudh to respond to emergencies.
